EVENTUALLY YOU HAVE TO MAKE A CHOICE - Hmiy by Fr. Dave Concepcion on Aug. 24, 2024

Summary

The sermon emphasizes the importance of making choices in life, stressing that not making a choice is a decision itself. The speaker reflects on the responsibility each person has in making decisions, particularly regarding their faith and life path. Through personal anecdotes and references to scripture, the message encourages individuals to embrace discipline, take ownership of their decisions, and understand the consequences of their choices. Ultimately, the sermon underscores that our choices shape our lives and destinies.

Takeaways

• 🙏 The message starts with a prayer, emphasizing the importance of the Spirit in giving life, and the significance of spiritual words over the flesh.
• 😮 Jesus's teachings were difficult for some disciples to accept, leading many to leave Him, highlighting the challenge of true faith and commitment.
• 🗣️ Simon Peter affirms the disciples' faith, declaring Jesus as the Holy One of God and recognizing His words as those of eternal life.
• ❓ The homily focuses on the crucial question, 'To whom shall we go?' and the necessity of making choices in life, especially in matters of faith and spirituality.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parents are encouraged to teach their children how to make decisions, emphasizing that not making a choice is a choice itself, which carries its own consequences.
• 🗝️ The speaker stresses the importance of personal responsibility in decision-making, especially in spiritual and moral matters, suggesting that each person must make their own choices and live with the outcomes.
• 🙅‍♂️ The idea that God does not make decisions for us is reinforced; instead, He blesses the choices we make, urging individuals to take responsibility for their actions and decisions.
• 📜 A reference is made to those who are 'eunuchs for the kingdom,' signifying different life choices made for the sake of God’s kingdom and the personal decision to remain unmarried for spiritual reasons.
• 🤔 The homily addresses the common human tendency to avoid responsibility for one’s choices, emphasizing that each person must own their decisions, whether in life or in faith.
• 💪 Discipline in life, especially in terms of making conscious choices about behavior and habits, is highlighted as a pathway to excellence and a fulfilled spiritual life.

Q & A

What is the main theme discussed in the sermon?

The main theme of the sermon is the importance of making choices in life and how those choices shape our future, especially in the context of faith and responsibility.

Why does the speaker emphasize the statement 'not to make a choice is a choice by itself'?

The speaker emphasizes this statement to highlight that indecision or avoiding responsibility is still a decision that has consequences. It is important to consciously make choices rather than letting circumstances dictate outcomes.

How does the speaker relate personal choices to spiritual growth?

The speaker relates personal choices to spiritual growth by explaining that our decisions, whether about lifestyle or faith, directly impact our spiritual life. For example, the decision to serve God or not, or to live with humility or pride, determines the quality of one's spiritual journey.

What analogy does the speaker use to describe the consequences of our choices?

The speaker uses the analogy of discipline, specifically in controlling one's diet, to describe how small choices, like what we eat, reflect our ability to control larger aspects of life, including spiritual discipline.

How does the speaker address the role of parents in teaching children about making choices?

The speaker emphasizes that parents should teach their children how to make choices. This is crucial because, as children grow older, they will need to make decisions independently, and being equipped with decision-making skills is essential for their future.

What does the speaker say about blaming others for our decisions?

The speaker points out that we often try to avoid making decisions because we don't want to be blamed or held responsible. However, he stresses that at the end of the day, we cannot blame others for the consequences of our choices; we must take responsibility ourselves.

What is the significance of the statement 'your yeses will always have no in something'?

This statement signifies that every decision we make (a 'yes') inherently involves saying 'no' to something else. It underlines the idea that making a choice requires commitment and often sacrifices, as we cannot have everything.

How does the speaker describe the relationship between making choices and living a life of excellence?

The speaker describes that living a life of excellence requires discipline in making the right choices. Embracing good habits and making deliberate decisions are necessary to achieve a life of excellence and distinction.

What advice does the speaker give to younger generations about making choices?

The speaker advises younger generations to make their own choices and not to shy away from the responsibility that comes with decision-making. He encourages them to take control of their lives rather than leaving decisions to others.

What is the final message of the sermon regarding faith and decision-making?

The final message of the sermon is that in matters of faith, there is no neutral ground; one must choose either to follow Christ or not. The speaker urges the congregation to make a clear and committed choice in their faith journey.